Susan M. Charles, 70, of Waterloo, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on March 27, 2025, at St. Luke's Hospice in Cedar Rapids.
Sue was the owner of Pitze's Salon and Merle Norman in Waterloo, where she dedicated over 50 years to her craft as a hairdresser. She cherished her clients and the bonds she formed with them; their time together meant far more to her than just a cut or color.
Sue served on the Cosmetology and Barbers of Iowa Board for many years, holding multiple roles, including president. A devoted educator and expert in Iowa cosmetology law, she taught the subject and was twice named Educator of the Year.
Our darling Sue left this world as a sister, an aunt, and a friend to so many. She was known for her creativity, love of pyrotechnics, obsession with lawn care, excitement over the New York Rangers, her knack for whipping up beautiful holiday tablescapes, and her famous breakfasts on camping trips. She was just as spunky and sweet as she was tough, and in our family, she was the glue. We wish we could ask her who has the "boss license," although we assume she took it with her. You will be so missed, Susie.
She is survived by her sisters, Julie Charles of Aurora, CO, and Terri (Greg) Churchill of Marion, IA; her brothers, Fred (Holly) Charles of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Frank Charles of Golden, CO; and her nieces and nephews: Courtney, Tyler, and Connor Charles; Graham(Erin) and Alex Churchill; Madeline and Chloe Rohlf; Nathan and Caryn Charles; and Nicolas and Jessica Charles; and her great-nephew Lincoln Churchill.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Mary Charles; her brother, Steven Charles; and her sister, Carol Charles-Rohlf.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Locke Funeral Home at Tower Park in Waterloo on Wednesday, April 2, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, beginning with a prayer service at 3:15 PM. Memorials may be directed to St. Luke's Hospice or the University of Iowa Cancer Research.